The 7 Best Online Anger Management Classes

While most people have heard the term “anger management,” not everyone knows what anger management classes actually involve.

Whether you’re new to online therapy or you regularly see a therapist, you might consider anger management classes if you’re working on your emotional health or learning to control your temper.

Here’s what you need to know about anger management classes online, from discovering whether you’re a good candidate to finding the right course.

To select anger management courses, we spoke with medical professionals to gather their recommendations. We also read reviews to find out which courses and classes had the best results and the most satisfied participants.

It was important to consider court-approved classes, a range of price points, and courses that are supported by licensed therapists and psychologists, with course materials prepared by anger management experts.

The variety of anger management courses available allows for a tailored approach for each person, as opposed to a one-size-fits-all model.

Anger management classes are a form of behavioral therapy and offer guidance to anyone who is experiencing anger or emotional issues.

“The courses are generally led by a well-qualified instructor who is knowledgeable in emotional regulation, anger management, and healthy communication skills,” said Dr. Carla Marie Manly, a clinical psychologist. However, these instructors do not offer live therapy sessions or coaching throughout the courses.

There’s a range of anger management courses available, but Manly says, ideally, the group leader will be a well-trained psychotherapist who is skilled in CBT or a similar modality.

Anger management classes come in a variety of lengths and delivery methods, depending on an individual’s needs.

While some people may prefer online courses, in-person sessions may also be available. Additionally, some people may prefer having their own therapist, while others may be happy with self-guided learning.

Anger is a healthy emotion that usually occurs in response to a perceived threat or discomfort. It can activate you to respond to a particular stimulus or communicate to others what’s going on internally.

Now and then, you may feel and express anger toward a situation. But you might have an anger issue if your anger:

• happens too frequently and excessively
• puts you in a rage
• starts to affect your relationship with yourself, the people around you, or your work
• affects your health and well-being

If your anger makes you act out in ways that leave you feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone. Research suggests that about 1 in 13 U.S. adults have experienced anger issues.

Anger manifests itself through physical, emotional, and behavioral signs. If you have anger issues, you may experience these signs constantly and intensely. Physical signs include:

• a rapid heart rate
• an increase in blood pressure
• an increased breathing rate
• an increased body temperature
• increased energy levels
• tense muscles
• tightness in your chest or stomach
• headache
• dizziness
• a hot feeling in your upper body

Emotional signs of anger include:

• restlessness
• irritability
• anxiety
• resentment
• impatience
• poor decision making
• a tense feeling
• low tolerance levels

Behavioral signs you may experience include:

• pacing
• clenching your jaws or fists
• crying or screaming
• being physically inactive
• craving and consuming more alcohol, caffeine, or tobacco

There are a number of reasons you might want to explore — or be required to attend — anger management classes.

A 2015 survey of more than 34,000 adults in the United States found that “anger was especially common among men and younger adults, and was associated with decreased psychosocial functioning.”

“Any individual who struggles with anger awareness and anger regulation is a good candidate for anger management classes,” Manly explained. “The sooner the individual receives treatment, the less likely it is that they will have difficulties that lead to domestic violence or other legal issues.”

Thomas DiBlasi, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist, said, “A good candidate for anger management is someone who either wants help managing their anger, has interpersonal issues, or who has gotten into trouble as a result of anger or aggression.”

People who have post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injuries, are recovering from substance addiction, or are managing mental health conditions might also benefit from anger management courses.

“Being able to communicate your emotions in a healthy way helps you maintain a happier lifestyle and better health,” said Mary Gay, PhD, LPC, CPCS, of The Summit Wellness Group.

“Learning how to manage your anger effectively reduces the chances of turning to less healthy coping mechanisms like drug abuse, self-harm or harming others,” Gay added.

Anger management classes may help you manage anger issues and control how you experience and express anger. To reap the full benefits of an anger management program, it’s important that you acknowledge your anger issues and your need for help and that you want to change the behavior.

You might not come to this conclusion on your own. Maybe a friend or loved one has mentioned your anger issues. In some cases, you might find yourself in a situation — such as a criminal charge or another court matter — where anger management classes are required.

If your anger is a symptom of an underlying mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, other forms of therapy may be more appropriate.

Anger is a natural emotion that is healthy at times, but it is possible to experience too much of a good thing.

If you have trouble managing your anger or emotions or if anger seems to be having difficult effects on your life, you may want to consider an anger management program. There are many of these programs to choose from, either directly with a therapist or through an online service.

Online classes and resources for anger management programs might not be the right fit for you if you don’t have steady and reliable internet access. Additionally, most online anger management classes are self-study and self-paced, so if you’re not very self-motivated, you might have trouble regularly completing the lessons.

When choosing a program that is right for you, consider the following:

• What is your goal for anger therapy?
• How well do you connect with the therapist?
• How quickly do you want results?
• Are there other issues besides anger that you need to work on?

Your goals, the types of tools you want to use, and any other mental health needs you may have are important considerations when choosing an anger management program.

You may want to interview several therapists or explore several services. And don’t be afraid to make a change if the first one you try — or even the second — isn’t the right fit.

Whether you’re required to attend anger management classes or you’re hoping to explore the subject to improve your mental and physical health, there are many online courses to get you started.

With access to so many resources in the comfort of your home, it’s extremely easy to start a new course of therapy that fits into your schedule.